Thursday, April 30, 2009

How to Impress Your Potential Employer in an Interview

A flashback: You have entered the interview hall with a pounding heart, the interviewer asks the first question and you are tongue-tied. You feel bad to have attended the interview. Well, that was then, next time you’ll be confident in the same hall. How? Read on:

If you’ve got an interview scheduled for tomorrow, here’s how you move forward,

Don’t even imagine going for the interview without doing research on the company. You should be able to answer any questions regarding the company and its competitors. In short, get updated on the products and services of the company, markets, financial position-market value, value of shares, profit-major achievements and the projects in the pipeline.

Then, decide on the clothes to wear. In general, it’s safe to wear formal clothes. Try to trim your beard and cut your finger nails. Check out the fastest route to reach the destination. Compile your certificates, resume sheets and references. Make sure that you have updated the phone numbers of your references. After this get a good night’s sleep

Reach the interview venue at least half an hour before schedule. Talk to the receptionist and confirm your arrival. Greet and have polite talks with the other candidates as this will help you relax. On entering the interview hall, greet each person in the room. If your mobile phone beeps now, you’ll know what would happen, so switch it off before entering the room. Be confident, maintain eye contact and have a steady pose. If you have a good sense of humour, express it as a good joke can break the ice. However, if humour means some jokes stolen from the internet avoid it. Maintain your cool on tricky and testing questions. Next, listen to the question before you speak.

Some common questions asked are,

Tell us about yourself?

Do a clear analysis of your strengths and weaknesses. After this analysis, you be able to describe yourself better. Be precise and brief. It’s not necessary to enumerate your qualifications though you can touch upon them.

What do you think your responsibilities in this company are?

If you have done your research you’ll be able to answer this question convincingly.

Why do you want to switch jobs?

This is a tricky question. Whatever be the problems you’ve had with your company, don’t condemn it. More challenges, responsibilities and career growth can be some of the answers to this question.

What are your expectations on the salary?

Don’t forget to include your perks and incentives along with your salary. Even if your salary is low, don’t give a wrong figure as your employer would be able to check it.

What’s the last book you have read?

Ah, sounds easy but another tough question this is. Be enthusiastic and make it sound as if you had enjoyed every bit of the last book. A short note on the author is also desirable.

After the interview thank the interview panel and close the door politely. There, congratulation on your new job.